Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil has spoken about Jose Mourinho's departure from Chelsea, describing the Portuguese as a "special manager".

Mourinho was axed from his post last week with the Blues just a point off the Premier League relegation zone, a decision that surprised playmaker Ozil, who worked under Mourinho at Real Madrid.

"I'm surprised by what happened with Jose," he told The Times. "He's a great manager. I believe that any club he goes to now he will be successful again.

"I know how special he is as a manager. He is a manager who always supports his team and always protects his team. He's getting the best out of any player.

"I wish him all the best for the future, and also that he's healthy and fine."

Mourinho is reportedly in the frame to take over from troubled Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford.